By Wendy Byard
Travel Advisor for solo women travellers
Switzerland’s Spectacular Rail Journeys
A calm, scenic way to see the Alps
This is Switzerland at its most reassuringly beautiful. If you love the idea of dramatic mountain scenery but want to experience it in comfort — seated, supported, and unhurried — this escorted rail journey is a wonderfully gentle way to do it. The trains do the hard work, and you simply sit back and take it all in.
Why this feels like a Gentle Escape
Rail travel through the Alps is naturally soothing. There’s no rushing, no navigating mountain roads, and no pressure to “keep up”. With an experienced tour manager throughout and generous free time built in, this trip feels organised yet relaxed — ideal if you’d like something special without feeling overwhelmed.
What your days might feel like
Your days are gently structured around some of the world’s most famous scenic rail journeys, balanced with time to rest and explore at your own pace.
Some highlights along the way include:
A full-day journey on the Bernina Express, winding past glaciers and dramatic viaducts into Italy
A full-day ride aboard the legendary Glacier Express, travelling through deep valleys and snow-dusted peaks
A peaceful Lake Constance cruise, with visits to Vaduz and Lindau
A guided walking tour of Davos, offering gentle orientation without being demanding
You’ll also have around 2½ days of free time, perfect for relaxed mountain walks, café stops, or simply enjoying the fresh Alpine air with no agenda at all.
Where you’ll be staying
You’ll spend 7 nights in the elegant Steigenberger Grandhotel Belvédère, a five-star hotel in Davos, known as Europe’s highest city. It’s a classic, welcoming base with mountain views and a sense of old-world Alpine comfort — somewhere it’s easy to feel settled.
A few reassuring details
8 days | 10 meals included (7 breakfasts, 3 dinners)
International flights included (British Airways from Heathrow)
Nationwide shared chauffeur service from home to airport and return
Davos Klosters Premium Card for complimentary or discounted local transport
Tour manager throughout, plus portable audio headsets on excursions
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been drawn to Switzerland but want to experience it in a way that feels comfortable, supported, and quietly awe-inspiring, this rail journey offers a beautifully calm path through some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes — all without having to push yourself at all